Finding Your Design Style : Check Your Closet

Yes, your closet.. & don't forget your shoes! Okay, yes these tips for nailing down your design style aren't exactly conventional. There are plenty of online quizzes available out there or assessments that can be done with designers, I'm sure. This is just what worked for me & while "trusting your gut" is usually the move, these are fun methods you can actually put into practice!

One big way I make intentional clothing purchases now & avoid getting something in the mail that looked way better on the model than it does on me (don't lie, it's happened & you know it) is shopping within my seasonal color palette. We all just look best in certain colors. HoWevEr, I did bend this rule last year. It was top of the fall, maybe the first official cool day outside & I reached for this thrifted, COZY grandpa cardigan that I've had for years. It's burgundy & burgundy just doesn't sit well on me.. unfortunately, it's not in my color wheel. Why do I keep this ONE sweater? Hard to say. Anyway, I ventured into the bathroom ~as one does~ & caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror & suddenly knew I was painting the room red.....kind of. I joked about it on Instagram then pitched the idea to Austin. His response was "I was hoping that was the color you'd choose next for our house" ... what? To make a short story long, we have a burgundy bathroom. This was a one-off situation & it worked in our favor... BUT if you're pretty in tune with your personal style, it can really lend a hand in some of your design choices for your home! Similarly to the places you choose to travel, you make these choices for a reason. They speak to you!

Everyone has basics as a part of their wardrobe, we're not talking about those. When I glance through my many sweaters, shackets & trousers I actually just don't have a ton of neutrals. The colors I do have are muted, earthy tones but they are full of color (& pattern) It's what I find myself reaching for. Partly because my color season tells me I have to but mainly because it's what I like!! - I tend to reach for these mid-toned colors in paint too. Pay attention to what you're always pulling off the rack.

Outside of color, think about how you prefer to pair an outfit together. I love seeing a soft cotton dress & a chunky leather loafer or shiny leather ballet flat paired with it. Our study has the dreamiest earthy paint color, Pigeon by Farrow & Ball, so naturally I tossed in a bold, warm cognac leather chair & a plaid pink rug! It feels balanced, right? A monochromatic outfit will also never get old. Neither will a monochromatic room.

(Vase) (Greenery) (Sweater) (Trinket Box) (Coffee Table Book) (Curtains) (Mirror) (Rug)

Patterns are also a good one to refer to. I've been loving plaids this year. In fashion AND in home. Harlequin phone case? Harlequin rug...don't mind if we do. Also, SILVER everything! My wardrobe is "trendy enough" I like to say but it always maintains a little vintage flare if I can help it. That's pretty true of the Altimus Home, too.

Thanks for being here.